Southport – Exploring the world right on your doorstep

Exploring. Going on trips and holidays away is something I love to do as often as possible. It’s a big ol’ world we live in and I’d love to see as much of it as I can before I get made into a diamond. *side note to my future kids*, if you don’t get me turned into a diamond when I die, you will be cut out of the will!

Back to the matter at hand. I love to travel to new countries and experience different cultures. The Maldives, New Zealand, Peru, they all look so glamourous, so adventurous, so alive! I’m addicted to perusing travel bloggers posts, seeking out places to go and activities to do just day dreaming away. Except that’s the thing, they’re just that, dreams. I save up every year for one big holiday if time allows but for the rest of the year I feel as if I’m missing out.

Well it’s time to stop feeling sorry for myself because the reality is there’s so much to explore right on my door step. No I don’t mean my literal door step where the most exciting thing that happens is my milk delivery but exploring the North West. After living in Liverpool for a decade, I thought I’d pretty much done it all. However, a whole new world was waiting for me on a short train ride away. Southport.

As luck would have it we’ve had ridiculously fantastic weather here in England, that’s lasted most of summer. Even though I’ve still complained about it being too hot, it was the perfect opportunity to take a day trip on that northern line. I’m a big lover of the seaside, visiting many in my childhood they bring back fantastic memories. Southport certainly seemed to offer everything you’d expect from a true British coastal town so I couldn’t wait to visit.

Of course I had to start my day in Southport with my favourite eggs royale at The Westminster Tea Rooms. This quaint cafe has the most charming ambience and soothing music that’s perfect for a traditional brunch affair. The food tastes delicious and the portions are generous, setting you up for the day ahead. As well as many gluten free and vegetarian options, there’s also an extensive vegan menu to suit everyone.

A leisurely stroll along the pier and a thrilling little train journey on the miniature railway and it was on to my next stop. It’s hard work all this fun, so a pint at the Lakeside Inn was a must. This traditional little pub is anything but ordinary. Run by one of the longest serving landlords in Southport, the Lakeside Inn is one of the smallest public houses in Britain. Situated over Marine lake, the outside seating area provides the perfect view for a refreshing pitstop.

A trip to Southport wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the arcades. Southport is filled with classic amusement arcades with games galore. It may not be the Las Vegas casinos but it’s just as fun. I’ve got a soft spot for the 2p coin pusher. There’s something about timing those pennies just right in the hopes of causing a money rainfall that I find thrilling. I’m a daredevil I know. Due to my amazing skills (and lots of pennies), I actually won something!! I love to have a prize to take home and remember my trip away. It may only be a keyring but every time I open my door to pick up my milk, I see that purple ball and remember every moment of fun.

I’ve discovered a new found love for visiting places closer to home. There’s always something new to see and memories to make. It’s no less exciting than travelling abroad and it has the added bonus of being close to my very comfortable bed at the end of the day.